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The bend radius of a cable is best defined as the amount a cable can be bent before the signal is compromised or the conductor is damaged. This concept is crucial in the installation and management of cabling systems, as exceeding the recommended bend radius can lead to physical damage to the cable's internal components or alteration of the signal integrity.

When a cable is bent beyond its specified bend radius, stress is placed on the conductors and insulation, potentially causing deformation, increased attenuation, or even a complete break in the conductor. This compromised state can affect the performance of the cable, leading to signal loss, interference, or failure of the system. Hence, understanding the bend radius helps ensure that cables are installed and handled in a way that maintains their operational integrity over time.

Other choices do not accurately encapsulate the definition of bend radius. The strength of the electromagnetic field or the physical properties related to breaking or thickness do not directly pertain to how bending affects a cable's functionality. Instead, the focus on the safe bending limit ties directly back to ensuring optimal performance and longevity of the cabling system.